The Transformative Approach is people oriented, focusing on empowerment and recognition. The mediator 1) helps the parties understand and analyze the different positions and perspectives brought to the conflict and 2) encourages the parties to discover and develop their own solutions.

The Facilitative Approach is process oriented and focuses on bringing parties together to communicate openly and freely about their conflict in effort to explore potential solutions.

The Evaluative/Directional Approach is mediator oriented, wherein the mediator evaluates the merits of the dispute and related claims to provide opinions and assist the parties with solutions.

*Various forms and styles of mediation can be used. Mediation styles are typically chosen based upon party request, party need, and the nature and complexity of the dispute.